Chapter 13

Vishnu Smriti 13

Now, the ordeal of poison (viṣa). // Vi_13.1 //

All poisons are not to be administered. // Vi_13.2 //

Except for the Śārṅga poison produced on the Himālaya mountain. // Vi_13.3 //

And of that, one shall give seven barley-corns' weight, mixed with clarified butter, to the accused. // Vi_13.4 //

If the poison is digested easily, without the effects of its virulence, Knowing him to be pure, one should release him at the end of the day. || Vi_13.5 ||

Because you are poison, and because you are harsh, you are cruel to all living beings. You alone, O Poison, know what mortals do not know. || Vi_13.6 ||

This man, accused in a lawsuit, desires to prove his purity. Therefore, you must righteously save this man from this doubt. || Vi_13.7 ||